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Fernley Family #6
The Captain and the Spy
When love is waylaid by a highwayman, who knew it would be shrouded in espionage?
Captain Cornelius Fernley has spent the last five years of his life entrenched in a world of espionage as he works to uncover a coup against the Prince Regent. The stage is set at a grand house party hosted by the Marquess of Blackwell, a man who is deeply established as one of the leaders of a group known as the Cavaliers.
Lady Elise Wells is determined to prove herself a valuable asset to the Home Office. As this is her first assignment, she is far from the perfect spy, but she has one virtue no one else on her team can claim. She has somehow captured the affections of Captain Cornelius Fernley and he seems to be their biggest obstacle to searching the castle at night.
Neither Cornelius nor Elise knows that the other is an agent. Yet, as they are thrown together throughout the party, they discover a growing affection that if not restrained could prove a distraction to their assignments, resulting in mistakes. In this line of work, any misstep could prove disastrous, and the agent may pay the ultimate price with their life.
Captain Fernley and the Spy is a standalone page-turning adventure where love and duty collide amidst the clandestine affairs of Society. Join Cornelius and Elise as they discover the secrets that lie beyond the ballroom in this captivating tale of suspense, sacrifice, and unexpected closed-door passion.
Captain Cornelius Fernley has spent the last five years of his life entrenched in a world of espionage as he works to uncover a coup against the Prince Regent. The stage is set at a grand house party hosted by the Marquess of Blackwell, a man who is deeply established as one of the leaders of a group known as the Cavaliers.
Lady Elise Wells is determined to prove herself a valuable asset to the Home Office. As this is her first assignment, she is far from the perfect spy, but she has one virtue no one else on her team can claim. She has somehow captured the affections of Captain Cornelius Fernley and he seems to be their biggest obstacle to searching the castle at night.
Neither Cornelius nor Elise knows that the other is an agent. Yet, as they are thrown together throughout the party, they discover a growing affection that if not restrained could prove a distraction to their assignments, resulting in mistakes. In this line of work, any misstep could prove disastrous, and the agent may pay the ultimate price with their life.
Captain Fernley and the Spy is a standalone page-turning adventure where love and duty collide amidst the clandestine affairs of Society. Join Cornelius and Elise as they discover the secrets that lie beyond the ballroom in this captivating tale of suspense, sacrifice, and unexpected closed-door passion.
232 pages, ebook
First published January 20, 2024
146 people are currently reading
178 people want to read
About the author
Angela E. Johnson
46 books87 followersAngela Johnson has a love of literature and all things Regency. Traveling and reading are favorite past times and help her form ideas for writing. Angela despises the snow when it is on the road, but loves snow when it falls romantically in the perfect scene for characters to fall in love. Be sure to follow Angela on BookBub for the latest releases and sales. https://tinyurl.com/5n6rkytm
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
January 28, 2025
My favorite book of the series!
April 16, 2024
The Captain and the Spy was a very entertaining story involving two agents for the Home Office trying to uncover a coup against the Prince Regent. Captain Cornelius Fernley has been a spy for the last five years, he lives for his assignments and loves his secret life.
Lady Elise Wells is assisting her cousin on her first assignment for the home office and wants to do a good job. They are attending a house party hosted by the Marquess of Blackwell, someone who is known to be a member of the Cavaliers a group working to take down the Prince Regent. Their mission is to find evidence that proves the Marquess is involved and uncover all members of the Cavaliers.
When she meets Cornelius there is mutual attraction and neither knows the other is a spy. Cornelius and Elise were wonderfully written characters, their interactions were delightful, we had humor, mystery, missteps, delightful banter, suspense and surprises that made for an excellent read.
If you want to be entertained with an adventurous story that will hold your interest from page one till the last page, I highly recommend this wonderful romantic spy story by Angela Johnson. This was my first book in the series, but I plan to go back and read them in order.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Lady Elise Wells is assisting her cousin on her first assignment for the home office and wants to do a good job. They are attending a house party hosted by the Marquess of Blackwell, someone who is known to be a member of the Cavaliers a group working to take down the Prince Regent. Their mission is to find evidence that proves the Marquess is involved and uncover all members of the Cavaliers.
When she meets Cornelius there is mutual attraction and neither knows the other is a spy. Cornelius and Elise were wonderfully written characters, their interactions were delightful, we had humor, mystery, missteps, delightful banter, suspense and surprises that made for an excellent read.
If you want to be entertained with an adventurous story that will hold your interest from page one till the last page, I highly recommend this wonderful romantic spy story by Angela Johnson. This was my first book in the series, but I plan to go back and read them in order.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 14, 2024
4.5 stars!
Such a great story! I loved Captain Cornelius Fernley and Elise. They are both spies but don’t know it. And I loved watching them flirt and fall in love. It was also fun to see characters from previous books. Overall, this was fun and romantic story and I recommend!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Such a great story! I loved Captain Cornelius Fernley and Elise. They are both spies but don’t know it. And I loved watching them flirt and fall in love. It was also fun to see characters from previous books. Overall, this was fun and romantic story and I recommend!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
April 6, 2024
This is the 3rd story in this series that I have read. I hesitated at the start , I put the book aside for a couple of months. I have now read it in a day. Truly enjoyable, perhaps my favourite so far. I enjoyed the charade and the chemistry and I have fallen more in love with the Fernley family. I highly recommend this series and this book. They are easy to read, clean and whimsical.
January 25, 2024
Standalone book 6 in the Fernley Family Series is just as delightful and intriguing as all the others leading up to this one and maybe even more so because it involves several agents of the Home Office and one of the Foreign Office as they try to find a missing woman and put a stop to the Cavaliers. This one introduces the reader to the sixth of the seven Fernley brothers, Captain Cornelius Fernley, also known as the Yodeler amongst the agents of the Home and Foreign Offices and as Hert Johan Schmidt while undercover on the continent. His main objective on this current mission is to find a missing woman, Lady Louisa Shaw, the daughter of Lord Blackwell and a newly acquired agent. Cornelius will attend a house party at Lord Blackwell’s to not only try to locate Louisa but also find out who is involved with the Cavaliers, a faction growing in opposition to the Prince. On his way there, he must first rescue two young women and their driver and footman from the clutches of a highwayman. Unbeknownst to Cornelius, these four, Miss Adeline Mayfield, her cousin Miss (Lady) Elise Wells, George the driver and (Colonel) Bernard Taft the footman, are also agents of the Home Office. After the rescue experience they all end up at the house party with Cornelius and after some flirtation and lovely banter, a love interest begins to develop between Cornelius and Elise.
This book has lots to keep the interest. The spy element is intriguing on its own, the missing Louisa has many delicious little tidbits, there’s secret meetings in the library, the den and out in the gardens, secret passages and secret doors, secret letters and secret messengers, stolen kisses and mistaken kisses, an almost drowning and an attempted murder and there’s faithless marriages and a promise of “undying” love. The two main characters bring most of the delightfulness to the book while Adeline and the agents with her, the others at the house party and Cornelius’ family add extra marvelous moments to the book. Whenever the brothers show up, especially with wives in tow, there will be plenty of teasing banter and lots of talent on display. A clean intriguing romance for all to enjoy.
I received a free Advanced Readers’ Copy of this book but was given no monetary compensation. I read for the enjoyment and voluntarily review so that others may know what to expect and authors may be helped by critique and encouragement.
This book has lots to keep the interest. The spy element is intriguing on its own, the missing Louisa has many delicious little tidbits, there’s secret meetings in the library, the den and out in the gardens, secret passages and secret doors, secret letters and secret messengers, stolen kisses and mistaken kisses, an almost drowning and an attempted murder and there’s faithless marriages and a promise of “undying” love. The two main characters bring most of the delightfulness to the book while Adeline and the agents with her, the others at the house party and Cornelius’ family add extra marvelous moments to the book. Whenever the brothers show up, especially with wives in tow, there will be plenty of teasing banter and lots of talent on display. A clean intriguing romance for all to enjoy.
I received a free Advanced Readers’ Copy of this book but was given no monetary compensation. I read for the enjoyment and voluntarily review so that others may know what to expect and authors may be helped by critique and encouragement.
January 24, 2024
From the start, I liked Angela Johnson’s The Captain and the Spy. From the first two chapters, I was intrigued by the plot setup of romance amidst espionage. I was curious to find out if Johnson would take the two main characters in what I would deem “stereotypical” directions (perhaps involving a lot of miscommunication and hurt feelings that eventually resolve). But throughout I was pleasantly surprised at how the plot did play out. Some actions I could foresee, and others surprised me.
I liked the two main characters, Elise and Cornelius. It charmed me how each one, after the reader had a good understanding of their characters/personalities, began to behave a little unconventionally as their love relationship grew. For instance, the confidant and competent Cornelius was suddenly tongue-tied and sloppy on the job when Elise entered the room. And both learned that love and marriage bring the best adventures and fulfillment.
The book has a host of other characters, several of whom you get to know. I liked many of these other characters. However, I often felt that many secondary side characters were not introduced thoroughly, and I was left wanting more interaction between the main characters and these side characters. For example, the story takes place at a house party, which is a center of social activity. There was reference to other people at the party, but no names were given or characters actually introduced to the reader until several chapters in, which I felt like was unnaturally late. Also, the context of a house party led to several brief references to immorality that I felt were unnecessary to the plot. No innuendos or scenes of that nature, but a few characters referencing it in dialogue.
This is a later book in a series that follows the same family of brothers. I haven’t read any of the other books in this series yet, but I was able to appreciate this book as a stand-alone novel. I was not left lost or confused having not read the previous books.
Overall, this was a fun and interesting read. Johnson’s dialogue is witty and her research is well-done.
I liked the two main characters, Elise and Cornelius. It charmed me how each one, after the reader had a good understanding of their characters/personalities, began to behave a little unconventionally as their love relationship grew. For instance, the confidant and competent Cornelius was suddenly tongue-tied and sloppy on the job when Elise entered the room. And both learned that love and marriage bring the best adventures and fulfillment.
The book has a host of other characters, several of whom you get to know. I liked many of these other characters. However, I often felt that many secondary side characters were not introduced thoroughly, and I was left wanting more interaction between the main characters and these side characters. For example, the story takes place at a house party, which is a center of social activity. There was reference to other people at the party, but no names were given or characters actually introduced to the reader until several chapters in, which I felt like was unnaturally late. Also, the context of a house party led to several brief references to immorality that I felt were unnecessary to the plot. No innuendos or scenes of that nature, but a few characters referencing it in dialogue.
This is a later book in a series that follows the same family of brothers. I haven’t read any of the other books in this series yet, but I was able to appreciate this book as a stand-alone novel. I was not left lost or confused having not read the previous books.
Overall, this was a fun and interesting read. Johnson’s dialogue is witty and her research is well-done.
January 27, 2024
The Captain and the Spy by Angela Johnson is filled with humor, flirting, romance and danger. Her writing is clever and fun! I keep coming back for more and more because her stories are fantastic and fill me with giddy excitement as I read from cover to cover. Every review of this Fernley Family series has told you how much I love the plot, the writing, the characters and the romance. Just when I think the author cannot possibly top her last story, she does. I don't want to spill the beans on Cornelius’s and Elise’s story so push this book to the top of your tbr pile today! Happy reading, friends!
Book description: Captain Cornelius Fernley has spent the last five years of his life entrenched in a world of espionage as he works to uncover a coup against the Prince Regent. The stage is set at a grand house party hosted by the Marquess of Blackwell, a man who is deeply established as one of the leaders of a group known as the Cavaliers.
Lady Elise Wells is determined to prove herself a valuable asset to the Home Office. As this is her first assignment, she is far from the perfect spy, but she has one virtue no one else on her team can claim. She has somehow captured the affections of Captain Cornelius Fernley, and he seems to be their biggest obstacle to searching the castle at night.
Neither Cornelius nor Elise knows that the other is an agent. Yet, as they are thrown together throughout the party, they discover a growing affection that if not restrained could prove a distraction to their assignments, resulting in mistakes. In this line of work, any misstep could prove disastrous, and the agent might pay the ultimate price with their life.
Captain Fernley and the Spy is a standalone page-turning adventure where love and duty collide amidst the clandestine affairs of Society. Join Cornelius and Elise as they discover the secrets that lie beyond the ballroom in this captivating tale of suspense, sacrifice, and unexpected closed-door passion.
Book description: Captain Cornelius Fernley has spent the last five years of his life entrenched in a world of espionage as he works to uncover a coup against the Prince Regent. The stage is set at a grand house party hosted by the Marquess of Blackwell, a man who is deeply established as one of the leaders of a group known as the Cavaliers.
Lady Elise Wells is determined to prove herself a valuable asset to the Home Office. As this is her first assignment, she is far from the perfect spy, but she has one virtue no one else on her team can claim. She has somehow captured the affections of Captain Cornelius Fernley, and he seems to be their biggest obstacle to searching the castle at night.
Neither Cornelius nor Elise knows that the other is an agent. Yet, as they are thrown together throughout the party, they discover a growing affection that if not restrained could prove a distraction to their assignments, resulting in mistakes. In this line of work, any misstep could prove disastrous, and the agent might pay the ultimate price with their life.
Captain Fernley and the Spy is a standalone page-turning adventure where love and duty collide amidst the clandestine affairs of Society. Join Cornelius and Elise as they discover the secrets that lie beyond the ballroom in this captivating tale of suspense, sacrifice, and unexpected closed-door passion.
February 1, 2024
Note: I received an advance review copy for free from Booksirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I enjoyed this book so much that not only did I read it in its entirety in two-and-a-half hours early in the morning (and I am not a morning person,) but I've gone and purchased the rest of the series to read. Despite being a part of a series, it very much functions as a standalone while still making the other characters that are part of said series appealing enough to be intriguing.
Speaking of intrigue, this had plenty! I was interested in the book in part because of the espionage aspect and I was not disappointed (though the part of me that loves intrigue will always cry for more.) The espionage plot was compelling enough to not feel like it was just thrown in for kicks & I was very much invested in where it went. The author also did the Regency era incredibly well-- all of the perfect little historically traditional sort of vibes without some of the ickier consent/power dynamics issues that can sometimes be found in the genre. Although I personally am not a fan of the "he falls first/love at first sight" trope, I still found it to be very tastefully done & like the characters have more in common than mere initial attraction alone. The only quibble I have is that I'd've liked to see more of the fallout in their relationship when all the secrets finally came to light, but (without spoiling it) I think the way the book ended provided an excellent reason for why that wasn't more of a central point in the story.
Overall, very much enjoyed it! Very much recommend for folks who are fans of Regency/Napoleonic War era historical romances. Can't wait to read the rest of the series!
I enjoyed this book so much that not only did I read it in its entirety in two-and-a-half hours early in the morning (and I am not a morning person,) but I've gone and purchased the rest of the series to read. Despite being a part of a series, it very much functions as a standalone while still making the other characters that are part of said series appealing enough to be intriguing.
Speaking of intrigue, this had plenty! I was interested in the book in part because of the espionage aspect and I was not disappointed (though the part of me that loves intrigue will always cry for more.) The espionage plot was compelling enough to not feel like it was just thrown in for kicks & I was very much invested in where it went. The author also did the Regency era incredibly well-- all of the perfect little historically traditional sort of vibes without some of the ickier consent/power dynamics issues that can sometimes be found in the genre. Although I personally am not a fan of the "he falls first/love at first sight" trope, I still found it to be very tastefully done & like the characters have more in common than mere initial attraction alone. The only quibble I have is that I'd've liked to see more of the fallout in their relationship when all the secrets finally came to light, but (without spoiling it) I think the way the book ended provided an excellent reason for why that wasn't more of a central point in the story.
Overall, very much enjoyed it! Very much recommend for folks who are fans of Regency/Napoleonic War era historical romances. Can't wait to read the rest of the series!
February 20, 2024
This is the first book by this writer but I will definitely read more of her books! This story is about Elise and Cornelius, both working as a spy and basically tiptoeing around each other, trying to discover secrets and finding the same missing person but without them knowing about the other one being a spy. (Cornelius is a well-trained spy but this is Elise’s first assignment as a companion to her spy niece Adeline.) It is quite funny, since they are stumbling upon each other all the time in their respective spy hunts, forcing them to come up with excuses, all the while battling the attraction they feel for each other and the guilt for not giving their assignment their complete attention. Pair that with an overly eager duchess who likes to play matchmaker between them and Elise’s niece who is the opposite of the duchess because she thinks a romance between Elise and Cornelius is not a good idea, and you have the perfect mix for a good book. It made me laugh to see them make silly mistakes while simultaneously assuming the other one is completely trustworthy and incapable of deceit.
This story is a slow burn romance with a good pace, adventure and humor. Kudos for the writer to keep this a clean story and focus on the emotional relationship! It is handled in a good and realistic way, not rushed and not too slow, it keeps you engaged. I read the book in two days (I had to work).
Without spoiling anything; how the barrister for the defense was aware of so many details is a mystery to me. But the ending was satisfying and the epilogue was an added bonus.
I received an advanced review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This story is a slow burn romance with a good pace, adventure and humor. Kudos for the writer to keep this a clean story and focus on the emotional relationship! It is handled in a good and realistic way, not rushed and not too slow, it keeps you engaged. I read the book in two days (I had to work).
Without spoiling anything; how the barrister for the defense was aware of so many details is a mystery to me. But the ending was satisfying and the epilogue was an added bonus.
I received an advanced review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 19, 2024
I'm so glad I recently discovered Angela Johnson's books and "The Fernley Family Series"! "The Captain and the Spy" was an entertaining Regency romance/spy story. Lady Elise Wells accompanies a team of spies, including her cousin Adeline, to uncover plans of a coup against the Crown. While she hasn't been fully trained to spy, she's enthusiastically hoping she will be a valuable asset to the team. She'd always dreamt of one day becoming an agent, fighting to protect the crown, and is excited for her first opportunity as an agent in training.
Captain Cornelius Fernley is also traveling undercover to locate a missing agent and secret plans of a coup against the Prince Regent. Along the roadway, he comes upon and rescues Miss Wells' team who are being robbed by a highwayman. He accompanies the party to his destination so that they can recover as they recover. From the start Lady Elise captures the Captain's attention and she returns his affections with flirting (and perhaps more). Interestingly, neither know that the other is a spy. Will the Captain and Elise allow their growing affection for each other to interfere with rescuing the missing agent?
I love spy stories with independent females, and "The Captain and The Spy" is one of the best I've read! I also enjoyed reacquainting myself with the other characters from previous stories--a great loving and supportive family!
I highly recommend this clean and suspenseful spy story, filled with mystery, humor and romance, a delightful combination!
I received a complimentary ARC of this book and have voluntarily given my honest opinion in this review.
Captain Cornelius Fernley is also traveling undercover to locate a missing agent and secret plans of a coup against the Prince Regent. Along the roadway, he comes upon and rescues Miss Wells' team who are being robbed by a highwayman. He accompanies the party to his destination so that they can recover as they recover. From the start Lady Elise captures the Captain's attention and she returns his affections with flirting (and perhaps more). Interestingly, neither know that the other is a spy. Will the Captain and Elise allow their growing affection for each other to interfere with rescuing the missing agent?
I love spy stories with independent females, and "The Captain and The Spy" is one of the best I've read! I also enjoyed reacquainting myself with the other characters from previous stories--a great loving and supportive family!
I highly recommend this clean and suspenseful spy story, filled with mystery, humor and romance, a delightful combination!
I received a complimentary ARC of this book and have voluntarily given my honest opinion in this review.
April 13, 2024
This is the sixth book of the Fernley Family series. Captain Cornelius Fernley has spent the last five years of his life as a spy in order to uncover a coup against the Prince Regent. He attends a house party thrown by one of the leaders of a group known as the Cavaliers. While on his way there, he encounters Elise and a group of others beings targeted by a highwayman and rescues them, not knowing they were spies as well. They all end up at the same house party. Both Elise and Cornelius are trying to locate a missing agent and Cornelius is also trying to uncover the plot for the coup and stop the Cavaliers. Cornelius and Elise both are strongly attracted to one another. Neither of them knowing the other is also an agent, they are weary of their growing attraction because any distractions in their line of work could have disastrous consequences. They are both torn between their growing affection for each other and their duty to their country.
I always love a good spy story, especially in the Regency context, and this one was very well done. It had just the right amount of intrigue, drama, and romance to keep me engaged and interested from start to finish. The characters were also well-developed and interesting and I really enjoyed following their story. A lovely and exciting addition to the series!
I received a complimentary copy from BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving my review.
I always love a good spy story, especially in the Regency context, and this one was very well done. It had just the right amount of intrigue, drama, and romance to keep me engaged and interested from start to finish. The characters were also well-developed and interesting and I really enjoyed following their story. A lovely and exciting addition to the series!
I received a complimentary copy from BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving my review.
September 12, 2024
Seasoned agent Captain Cornelius Fernley & Newbie spy Elise Wells
Captain Cornelius Fernley was to stay at the week long garden party at the Castle of his father's family friend The Marquess of Blackwell. However, Since Captain Fernley works for the crown at the foreign Service. He actually is going undercover to find the evidence of the coup plot by the Cavaliers against the Prince Regent. He was to get the documents from his Informant. Lady Louise Blackwell.
Lady Elise Wells was attempting to prove herself as a spy on her 1st assignment to the home office. Finding Lady Louisa Blackwell for another agent & fiancé to the missing daughter. The story from Marquess & Lady Blackwell is their daughter has gone to visit her aunt. Neither spy believes the that Louisa has gone for a visit.
Cornelius or Elise never thought that they would find love. Keeping their secret identities could get them killed. However, the affection & Distractions could be detrimental to the assignment, along with the life of the Prince Regent. They don't know each other are spies. However, they're growing attraction could result in both of them making mistakes & getting themselves killed. Not to mention all the parties associated w/ the Cavaliers.
Can these two spies have love & save crown & country? Will they find out about each other's assignment before it's too late? Read the suspenseful love story of Cornelius and Elise.
Captain Cornelius Fernley was to stay at the week long garden party at the Castle of his father's family friend The Marquess of Blackwell. However, Since Captain Fernley works for the crown at the foreign Service. He actually is going undercover to find the evidence of the coup plot by the Cavaliers against the Prince Regent. He was to get the documents from his Informant. Lady Louise Blackwell.
Lady Elise Wells was attempting to prove herself as a spy on her 1st assignment to the home office. Finding Lady Louisa Blackwell for another agent & fiancé to the missing daughter. The story from Marquess & Lady Blackwell is their daughter has gone to visit her aunt. Neither spy believes the that Louisa has gone for a visit.
Cornelius or Elise never thought that they would find love. Keeping their secret identities could get them killed. However, the affection & Distractions could be detrimental to the assignment, along with the life of the Prince Regent. They don't know each other are spies. However, they're growing attraction could result in both of them making mistakes & getting themselves killed. Not to mention all the parties associated w/ the Cavaliers.
Can these two spies have love & save crown & country? Will they find out about each other's assignment before it's too late? Read the suspenseful love story of Cornelius and Elise.
January 14, 2024
This is the sixth book in the Fernley Family series, and they just keep getting better.
I loved Cornelius and Elise. The "he falls first" trope was lovely. The love story between Cornelius and Elise was perfection. I loved the way it ended. Closed door, but more than just little sweet kisses.
One of the other things I loved about this book was that Miss Johnson let the reader know there was a lot of shady stuff happening behind the scenes with Lord Blackwell and the coup. As I reader I want to know that everything isn't daffodils and sunshine when evil is lurking about. The Cavaliers were bad people. They can't be showing signs of being a good husband and a great host when they are attempting to kill the prince regent. There was a real threat happening in the pages of the book, it was intense, and that is why a bunch of spies were on the job. Also, if they aren't despicable characters, then their punishment wouldn't make sense. Which, I don't like feeling bad for the evil characters. I had no problem disliking Lord Blackwell and his friends.
Anyway, this book was exciting and kept me reading from page one to the very sweet epilogue.
I received an ARC copy of this book. My opinions are my own, and I was not required to give a positive review.
I loved Cornelius and Elise. The "he falls first" trope was lovely. The love story between Cornelius and Elise was perfection. I loved the way it ended. Closed door, but more than just little sweet kisses.
One of the other things I loved about this book was that Miss Johnson let the reader know there was a lot of shady stuff happening behind the scenes with Lord Blackwell and the coup. As I reader I want to know that everything isn't daffodils and sunshine when evil is lurking about. The Cavaliers were bad people. They can't be showing signs of being a good husband and a great host when they are attempting to kill the prince regent. There was a real threat happening in the pages of the book, it was intense, and that is why a bunch of spies were on the job. Also, if they aren't despicable characters, then their punishment wouldn't make sense. Which, I don't like feeling bad for the evil characters. I had no problem disliking Lord Blackwell and his friends.
Anyway, this book was exciting and kept me reading from page one to the very sweet epilogue.
I received an ARC copy of this book. My opinions are my own, and I was not required to give a positive review.
January 26, 2024
I really enjoyed reading this book and the story moved along at a good pace to keep the reader interested in the story.
Captain Cornelius Fernley has been a military man and spy serving England for years. His main objective is to protect the Prince Regent and find the conspirators who want to organize a coup because of their dissatisfaction with the Prince. When he is invited to a house party where he knows there will be members of the Cavalier group present, he is determined to get some answers. On the way, he finds a couple of gently bred ladies in distress and being held by a highwayman who has injured their protectors. He brings them along with him to the house party.
Lady Elise Wells is on her first assignment from the Home Office as a spy and companion to her cousin, who is also a spy for England. Elise is given the task to distract the Captain and make him fall in love with her. Will her efforts be successful or will she fall for him instead?
This story was clean, suspenseful and full of lots of romance and swoon-worthy moments. I enjoyed it very much and look forward to reading more by this author.
I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.
Captain Cornelius Fernley has been a military man and spy serving England for years. His main objective is to protect the Prince Regent and find the conspirators who want to organize a coup because of their dissatisfaction with the Prince. When he is invited to a house party where he knows there will be members of the Cavalier group present, he is determined to get some answers. On the way, he finds a couple of gently bred ladies in distress and being held by a highwayman who has injured their protectors. He brings them along with him to the house party.
Lady Elise Wells is on her first assignment from the Home Office as a spy and companion to her cousin, who is also a spy for England. Elise is given the task to distract the Captain and make him fall in love with her. Will her efforts be successful or will she fall for him instead?
This story was clean, suspenseful and full of lots of romance and swoon-worthy moments. I enjoyed it very much and look forward to reading more by this author.
I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.
January 23, 2024
This is the 6th book in a series about a family of brothers. It can be read as a standalone but I think it might be understood more if it were read in order.This is my reasoning for that statement. I have read the first and maybe second one in the series and now this one. As I was reading in the beginning, I kept wondering how much of the story had taken place in previous books. Since I haven't read all of them, I can't say for sure. I think some important events did take place though. I still completely understood everything that went on, but I think I would have appreciated it more with additional background information.
I ended up really enjoying this book! The last half of it was very interesting. Something that affected the first part of it for me was that I had read a book just prior to this one that also had a Captain. So for awhile I kept trying to make this Captain match this Captain with the one I already knew. That is totally on me though. Even without having done that, I believe I would still have had a couple of issues with how quickly events and feelings moved in the first part of the book.
The end was worth it though. I was gifted an advanced digital copy of this book by the author. I am happy to leave an honest review.
I ended up really enjoying this book! The last half of it was very interesting. Something that affected the first part of it for me was that I had read a book just prior to this one that also had a Captain. So for awhile I kept trying to make this Captain match this Captain with the one I already knew. That is totally on me though. Even without having done that, I believe I would still have had a couple of issues with how quickly events and feelings moved in the first part of the book.
The end was worth it though. I was gifted an advanced digital copy of this book by the author. I am happy to leave an honest review.
January 14, 2024
This was the most exciting book in the Fernley Brothers Series that I have had the pleasure of reading, and was a rollercoaster of a read.
Captain Cornelius Fernley, the sixth of seven brothers has served as a member of the military, whilst also serving as a Spy for the Foreign Office.
His latest assignment is to foil a coup against the King, which is being plotted by members of the aristocracy.
Lady Elise Wells, daughter of a Duke, has also been assigned a similar role, but as a companion for her cousin.
Cornelius and Elise meet under unusual circumstances, and as guests at a house party, each try to find evidence regarding the coup, without letting the other know of their roles.
However, that doesn’t stop the attraction they feel for one another.
I really enjoyed reading this story, which has Romance mixed in with Subterfuge and clandestine activity.
Danger crosses both their paths and I couldn’t wait to read to the end, which had a surprise in store.
I received an advance review copy for free, and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
Captain Cornelius Fernley, the sixth of seven brothers has served as a member of the military, whilst also serving as a Spy for the Foreign Office.
His latest assignment is to foil a coup against the King, which is being plotted by members of the aristocracy.
Lady Elise Wells, daughter of a Duke, has also been assigned a similar role, but as a companion for her cousin.
Cornelius and Elise meet under unusual circumstances, and as guests at a house party, each try to find evidence regarding the coup, without letting the other know of their roles.
However, that doesn’t stop the attraction they feel for one another.
I really enjoyed reading this story, which has Romance mixed in with Subterfuge and clandestine activity.
Danger crosses both their paths and I couldn’t wait to read to the end, which had a surprise in store.
I received an advance review copy for free, and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
January 21, 2024
4.5/5 Stars
I received an ARC in exchange for a review.
I was THRILLED to receive this ARC! I have read Angela Johnson's other Fernley Family books and couldn't wait for this one to come out. Each book is a standalone that follows each of the family's brothers.
The Captain and the Spy is about Captain Cornelius Fernley and Elise Wells, two regency-era spies sent to the Blackwell house party. Of course, somehow, they don't know the other is also a spy and on the same team. While searching for a missing spy, the two engage in witty banter while each tries to keep their own secrets. I absolutely adored Elise! Her disregard for the societal expectations of innocence led to some great flirting. Elise has a confidence and spunk that were highlighted in the opening scene where her carriage is intercepted by a highwayman.
Angela Johnson writes wonderful closed-door Regency RomComs. I will read anything she writes! I also appreciate her Christian themes.
All-in-all a great book well worth your time!
I received an ARC in exchange for a review.
I was THRILLED to receive this ARC! I have read Angela Johnson's other Fernley Family books and couldn't wait for this one to come out. Each book is a standalone that follows each of the family's brothers.
The Captain and the Spy is about Captain Cornelius Fernley and Elise Wells, two regency-era spies sent to the Blackwell house party. Of course, somehow, they don't know the other is also a spy and on the same team. While searching for a missing spy, the two engage in witty banter while each tries to keep their own secrets. I absolutely adored Elise! Her disregard for the societal expectations of innocence led to some great flirting. Elise has a confidence and spunk that were highlighted in the opening scene where her carriage is intercepted by a highwayman.
Angela Johnson writes wonderful closed-door Regency RomComs. I will read anything she writes! I also appreciate her Christian themes.
All-in-all a great book well worth your time!
January 20, 2024
Angela Johnson has written another delightful tale that plunges the reader deep into Regency manners and at the same time has some suspense mixed in with the romance.
Elise Wells is on her very first spy mission with her cousin Adaline. Her only real purpose initially is just to find out information about the missing Louisa. When their carriage is held up by a foppish highwayman, they suddenly come under the protection of Captain Cornelius Fearnely. The handsome captain is also a spy for the crown unbeknownst to Elise and her cousin. Soon they are all pulled into an intrigue at Blackwell Hall. After many twists and turns, swoony kisses, and some possibly tragic moments, an HEA is achieved. Whew.
Angela’s deft hand at period dialogue and delicious description make for a fun read and a great immersive Regency experience.
I received an advance reader copy for free and I am voluntarily offering my honest opinion.
Elise Wells is on her very first spy mission with her cousin Adaline. Her only real purpose initially is just to find out information about the missing Louisa. When their carriage is held up by a foppish highwayman, they suddenly come under the protection of Captain Cornelius Fearnely. The handsome captain is also a spy for the crown unbeknownst to Elise and her cousin. Soon they are all pulled into an intrigue at Blackwell Hall. After many twists and turns, swoony kisses, and some possibly tragic moments, an HEA is achieved. Whew.
Angela’s deft hand at period dialogue and delicious description make for a fun read and a great immersive Regency experience.
I received an advance reader copy for free and I am voluntarily offering my honest opinion.
January 24, 2024
I have really enjoyed the Fernley Family series of these seven brothers. When Cornelius Fernley (the sixth brother) becomes embroiled in finding out the identity of the treasonous Cavaliers, he has no idea when he meets lovely Lady Elise at a house party that she is on a secret mission too. The subterfuge of both Cornelius and Elise make this an interesting spy story. I kept wondering if and when their secrets would be revealed to one another.
I have read almost all of the other books in the series, so it was fun to meet the Fernleys and their spouses again. If you haven’t read any of the series, it will be fine since this can be read as a standalone. I am looking forward to the seventh brother’s story since they are all very interesting.
Things to Enjoy:
more than one secret
heartless villains
the spy ring
Prince George
justice
spy love story
I received a copy of this book. A positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.
I have read almost all of the other books in the series, so it was fun to meet the Fernleys and their spouses again. If you haven’t read any of the series, it will be fine since this can be read as a standalone. I am looking forward to the seventh brother’s story since they are all very interesting.
Things to Enjoy:
more than one secret
heartless villains
the spy ring
Prince George
justice
spy love story
I received a copy of this book. A positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.
January 26, 2024
The Captain and the Spy is an excellent addition to Johnson's Fernley family series! I've enjoyed each book in the series, and I feel this one is the best yet!
Each of the Fernley Family novels gets its own secondary plot to go with the romance, and I loved that in this case, that plot was centered around espionage! I've always loved a good spy plot, and I love a spy plot set in the regency era even more, it turns out. I loved how we had two spies who had no idea that the other was also a spy -- and for the same government, even!
I love that the romance stays very clean and closed door while also still being very engaging. I was so invested in Captain Fernley and Elise's romance right from the start. I love how -- much like in real life -- both are totally caught by surprise when they fall in love.
Such a lovely read overall! Thank you to Angela Johnson for the ARC copy. All opinions are my own.
Each of the Fernley Family novels gets its own secondary plot to go with the romance, and I loved that in this case, that plot was centered around espionage! I've always loved a good spy plot, and I love a spy plot set in the regency era even more, it turns out. I loved how we had two spies who had no idea that the other was also a spy -- and for the same government, even!
I love that the romance stays very clean and closed door while also still being very engaging. I was so invested in Captain Fernley and Elise's romance right from the start. I love how -- much like in real life -- both are totally caught by surprise when they fall in love.
Such a lovely read overall! Thank you to Angela Johnson for the ARC copy. All opinions are my own.
February 2, 2024
Excellent read, well written, fast paced. Loved this story and found it hard to put down. Full of drama, love, romance, intrigue, suspense, action, adventures, and spies. All the characters from the spies to the villains were well defined and developed, whether they are good or bad. Cornelius is sent to a home party to find out info about traitors trying to take over the crown by Prinny. While Elise and 3 others are sent to the same party by the Head office to save a missing lady who is also a spy but has gone missing. Being there to find info , Elise and Cornelius do not realize that they all have a common goal. During the hunt for info, their paths cross over many times and they even share a kiss. Has some sadness to it but gets a happy ending for them. So much action and adventure mixed together. Absolutely fantastic read, characters are all well defined and strong. Can't wait for more. Would strongly recommend to everyone.
I am an ARC and leave this unbiased, honest review.
I am an ARC and leave this unbiased, honest review.
February 8, 2024
The newest entry in Angela Johnson's Fernley Family series is the best yet. Cornelius Fernley is, in addition to being a soldier, a secret agent in service to Prince George. He’s sent to a house party to find documents to break up a group, called the Cavaliers. En route to the house, he interrupts a highwayman robbing a carriage with two young women in it. He’s immediately taken with Elise, the feisty, dark-haired girl who challenges the highwayman and attempts to take him out with a whip. Little does he know that the women and their carriage drivers are also spies for the Prince who are going to the same house party to find their informant, who has disappeared. As you can imagine, there are misunderstandings and hidden agendas galore. The book is a fun mix of romance, action, mystery and intrigue. I absolutely loved it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 3, 2024
This is the first book I’ve read from Angela Johnson and although I had a really slow start, I enjoyed the book. I don’t know if the beginning just didn’t catch my attention or I needed to read some of the previous books. After I got a couple chapters in, I started to enjoy the characters and the storyline much more and by the end I loved it. There was a lot of suspense and drama, flirty banter and sweet romance. But I do believe that reading the other books would make it more enjoyable, and I would have become more familiar with family. The one thing that bothered me was that Cornelius called his mother Gigi instead of mother. I thought that was strange, and I didn’t see any explanation, so again it could be from a previous book. I appreciate close door, clean Romance. This one had some Christian elements but not overly done. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
January 17, 2024
What a lovely book! so well written and with a nice love story to match. Not all regency books need to be steamy. This book is a refreshing change.
“The Captain and The Spy” is the sixth book of the Fernley Family series. You can read it a standalone. However, after reading this book, I wish to start reading them in order.
Captain Cornelius Fernley is the military brother of the Fernley family who also works for the Home Office. In one of his most dangerous assignments he meets Lady Elise Wells and a spark is born. Both will work towards the same objective without knowing it.
Love the story and most of the characters. Not a fan of Adeline, Elise’s cousin to be honest. Found her immature and petty to be an agent. The rest was delightful to read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
“The Captain and The Spy” is the sixth book of the Fernley Family series. You can read it a standalone. However, after reading this book, I wish to start reading them in order.
Captain Cornelius Fernley is the military brother of the Fernley family who also works for the Home Office. In one of his most dangerous assignments he meets Lady Elise Wells and a spark is born. Both will work towards the same objective without knowing it.
Love the story and most of the characters. Not a fan of Adeline, Elise’s cousin to be honest. Found her immature and petty to be an agent. The rest was delightful to read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 21, 2024
4.5
What a pleasant surprise this was! It was my first book by the author, so I had no expectations. I also didn’t know it was part of a series- but it didn’t hinder my understanding or enjoyment in the least. I’m excited to go back and read the others now.
This regency story has sacrifice, secrets, suspense, and lots of closed door romance. It also has a strong FMC, a MMC who starts out as a bit of a curmudgeon- but is softened despite his best efforts by a beautiful young woman. It just happens they are both spies/agents- but neither knows it. They are even working on the same case- and it’s fun to see the dance they do around their investigations.
“When the heart makes a decision, it is best not to ignore it.”
“I think every proper young lady should learn to wield a sword. Gently bred does not have to mean weak.”
What a pleasant surprise this was! It was my first book by the author, so I had no expectations. I also didn’t know it was part of a series- but it didn’t hinder my understanding or enjoyment in the least. I’m excited to go back and read the others now.
This regency story has sacrifice, secrets, suspense, and lots of closed door romance. It also has a strong FMC, a MMC who starts out as a bit of a curmudgeon- but is softened despite his best efforts by a beautiful young woman. It just happens they are both spies/agents- but neither knows it. They are even working on the same case- and it’s fun to see the dance they do around their investigations.
“When the heart makes a decision, it is best not to ignore it.”
“I think every proper young lady should learn to wield a sword. Gently bred does not have to mean weak.”
January 15, 2024
Intriguing cloak and dagger Regency infused with clever banter.
The Captain- Cornelius Fernley is a secret agent for the Prince of Wales. He is charged with routing out a spy network called the Cavaliers at a house party.
The Spy- Elsie Wells , daughter of a prominent Duke, is a fledgling spy on a mission with her cousin ( the real spy) to find a missing contact turned agent for the Crown who is actually the daughter of one of the Cavaliers.
Elsie and her spy cousin accidentally end up at the house party and through a series of encounters, secret doors, secret conversations, the story rolls on with of course a happy ending.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The Captain- Cornelius Fernley is a secret agent for the Prince of Wales. He is charged with routing out a spy network called the Cavaliers at a house party.
The Spy- Elsie Wells , daughter of a prominent Duke, is a fledgling spy on a mission with her cousin ( the real spy) to find a missing contact turned agent for the Crown who is actually the daughter of one of the Cavaliers.
Elsie and her spy cousin accidentally end up at the house party and through a series of encounters, secret doors, secret conversations, the story rolls on with of course a happy ending.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 1, 2024
Excitement from the beginning. Espionage, secrets and love, oh my! I loved this story. For me it has all the right ingredients to be memorable. The main characters have good chemistry but not love at first sight. I like that their relationship grows as well as themselves personally. The Captain is definitely swoon worthy, and the miss is sweet and intelligent. Her cousin is a jerk though. Not sure how she stands her. This is a story of knowing what you want at all costs and then realizing it’s okay to change. I have read most of the other books in this series, and this one is by far my favorite. I’ll definitely snuggle up with this one again. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 21, 2025
The Captain and the Spy by Angela E Johnson
🕵♀️ Her first assignment
🕵♀️ A world of espionage
🕵♀️ Uncovering a coup
🕵♀️ Suspense and sacrifice
🕵♀️ Sweet romance, just kisses (no spice)
Genre: Historical mystery
In this line of work, any misstep could prove disastrous, and the agent may pay the ultimate price with their life...
Definitely a lot of excitiment in this one for a regency romance! I liked both the main characters and enjoyed reading their story. Would recommend and I plan on reading more from this series.
Favorite quote: "I remembered that you haunt the library like a ghost who didn’t have enough time to read when it was alive.”
Book 6 in the Fernley Family series (easily read as a standalone)
⭐⭐⭐⭐
🕵♀️ Her first assignment
🕵♀️ A world of espionage
🕵♀️ Uncovering a coup
🕵♀️ Suspense and sacrifice
🕵♀️ Sweet romance, just kisses (no spice)
Genre: Historical mystery
In this line of work, any misstep could prove disastrous, and the agent may pay the ultimate price with their life...
Definitely a lot of excitiment in this one for a regency romance! I liked both the main characters and enjoyed reading their story. Would recommend and I plan on reading more from this series.
Favorite quote: "I remembered that you haunt the library like a ghost who didn’t have enough time to read when it was alive.”
Book 6 in the Fernley Family series (easily read as a standalone)
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Read
January 22, 2024I really enjoyed this book. It is a standalone novel but is part of a series. I've not read any books from this author before but once I finished this one I went back to Amazon and downloaded all the previous ones. The characters in The Captain and the Spy were well developed and interesting. The storyline was interesting and easy to follow and the developing romance between the two main characters was believable and delightful. I'll read it again once I've read the others that came before and I'm sure I'll enjoy it even more. I recieved an advance copy free and have chosen to leave a review.
January 25, 2024
The Captain and the Spy is Book 6 in the Fernley Family Series hy Angela Johnson. One thing that I enjoy about this series is that each book is unique. Captain Cornelius Fernley is a spy for the Crown. As such, he puts his life on the line to stop the "cavaliers" from overthrowing the Crown. I thought the story was interesting and exciting. Lady Elise is helping her cousin, Adeline, retrieve information at the same sortie. This book has a touch of everything I enjoy, spying, excitement, danger and a sprinkle of romance… perfection. I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.
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